Creative Complex Systems

Globalization can increase the potential risks of "systemic problems," leading to system-wide disruptions. The coronavirus pandemic has revealed social disparities and caused massive destruction of the economy and globalization. To protect against such emerging challenges, an integrationist approach is needed to consider individual problems as different aspects of a single whole. This book features contributions by members and colleagues of the Kyoto University International Research Unit of Integrated Complex System Science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 429 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The world has witnessed a surge in global challenges in recent years, ranging from environmental and economic crises to pandemics caused by novel viruses. While globalization has brought about numerous benefits, it also heightens the potential risks of "systemic problems," resulting in widespread disruptions across systems. The coronavirus pandemic, officially declared by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, has starkly exposed social inequalities, with individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds facing a higher risk of death. This pandemic has caused immense destruction to the economy and globalization itself. In response to these challenges, extensive efforts have been made, yet they have often led to the emergence of new problems due to the intricate web of hidden causation.

To safeguard against such emerging threats, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach. The integrationist approach, which views individual problems as interconnected aspects of a larger whole, provides a valuable framework for understanding complex situations. By integrating seemingly contradictory issues into a coherent framework, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.

This book, featuring contributions from members and colleagues of the Kyoto University International Research Unit of Integrated Complex System Science, takes a novel perspective on complex systems. It broadens our understanding beyond the traditional notion of stability, where global situations are eventually stabilized after destruction. Instead, it explores "creative" complex systems, where innovation and adaptability play pivotal roles in shaping outcomes.

Chapter 1, titled "David Pines and Me," is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via the link: link.springer.com. This chapter provides an introduction to the book and highlights the significance of integrating different perspectives to address complex challenges.

In conclusion, the world is facing a multitude of complex challenges, requiring a comprehensive and integrated approach. By adopting the integrationist perspective and exploring "creative" complex systems, we can better prepare ourselves to navigate the uncertainties of the future and build a more resilient and sustainable world.

Weight: 676g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811644597
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021